There is no doubt that Robert Moses’s systemic urban development of New York City’s significantly enriched the city’s economic and social development, but Moses’s empire was built on the foundations of dishonesty and inflamed egotism. Early in the passage, it was easy to recognize Moses’s defining traits. His initial proposal for the development of a Minority Association told of this disdain for those who are different. His dishonesty about the directing of funds and his willingness to quit over such a minuscule detail shows his egotism. It was no doubt that these qualities are what helped Robert Moses ascent to power
“He had used the power of money to undermine the democratic processes of the largest city in the world, to plan and build parks, bridges, highways and housing projects on the basis of his whim alone.” More than a planner, Moses was a politician, he knew how to work the media and other politicians. Moses demanded for the seat to Park Development after Wagner’s swear in and fully hearted lied to the media about his plans. What can you say about a man who was even feared by the president of the time, Franklin Roosevelt? What stood out to me was his development of a secret police to patrol his areas and do his bidding. These methods are comparable to those uses by some of the most famous dictators in the world.
Once again, it is undeniable that Robert Moses has enhanced the structural integrity of New York City, but his character and the methods used cannot go unnoticed.
Madhav Bhatt
